Amidst an ongoing debate over the Centre’s proposed integrated MBBS-BAMS course, leading medical experts argue that India has a unique opportunity to set a global benchmark in integrative healthcare — but only through shared clinical exposure and rigorous research collaboration between Ayurveda and Allopathy.

Dr Ajaya Kashyap, senior plastic surgeon and author of The Quest of Sushruta, observed that India’s medical legacy — exemplified by ancient surgeon Sushruta — already blended surgical innovation with traditional wisdom. “Sushruta was a scientific thinker whose work on dissection and instrumentation helped shape modern surgical science. If today’s medical advancements are rooted in validated traditional practices, India can lead a healthcare revolution,” he said.

Kashyap pointed out that even Western medical frameworks, such as the Hippocratic humors, were inspired by Ayurveda’s tri-dosha theory (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), and ancient epistemological tools like Pramanas mirrored modern evidence-based medicine.

While some allopathic practitioners have raised concerns about “mixopathy,” others advocate a forward-looking, science-backed approach. Dr B B Aggarwal of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital argues, “This isn’t East versus West — it’s about what works best for the patient. But integration must stand on clinical trials, standardised care, and scientific protocols.”

Aggarwal noted that while Ayurvedic concepts like personalised treatment and seasonal adaptation gained popularity worldwide under modern labels, challenges remained. “We need robust clinical research, better drug standardisation, and modern diagnostic training within Ayurveda,” he said.

Both experts stress that before merging syllabi, institutions must first encourage mutual clinical exposure and joint research. “Let MBBS students understand Ayurveda scientifically, and BAMS students train in modern emergency care. Integration must be evidence-led,” Kashyap concluded.